Celebrating 90 Years Of Caring

The Victorian Order of Nurses in Windsor and Essex County promotes a series of events during the month of October 2016. The VON Meals on Wheels / Windsor Fire and Rescue event was held 5 October 2016, and kicked off Community Support Month.Photo courtesy of Mike Kovaliv, SnapD Windsor/VON.

(WINDSOR, ON) – VON Windsor-Essex has announced the celebration of VON Week 2017 from May 14 to 20. This year’s theme is Together in Care: Celebrating 120 years of VON Canada.

During VON Week, the organization will be highlighting the important role and contribution VON has made in the delivery of home and community care. VON Windsor-Essex will also be celebrating a milestone of their own this year; 90 years of bringing professional, compassionate care to Windsor-Essex.

Starting out as a nursing agency nine decades ago, the Windsor-Essex branch has evolved to offer many programs that have helped build a healthier, more vibrant community.

In addition to services helping newcomers, expectant mothers, student nutrition, and workplaces, VON is a leader in senior and respite care. While VON is known for visiting nursing, other offerings help the elderly to maintain their independence and age with a sense of self-fulfilment and dignity.

“With programs like VON Meals on Wheels, VON Adult Day Program, SMART program, and Home Help, VON Windsor-Essex continues a long tradition of caring for some of our most vulnerable neighbours,” said Sharon Bevington, who also points out the full scope of the organization goes beyond one age group. “When people think of VON, they often mention our service to seniors, but we really provide help for the whole family, from prenatal to palliative care.”

On November 3, VON Windsor-Essex will be hosting a special anniversary event. In honour of the vital role they’ve played in the local branch reaching 90 years of service, all past volunteers and staff are invited to attend.

“Through all the changes in Canadian health care, it’s a real testament to staff and volunteers that we’ve been able to serve the area for 90 years,” Bevington said. “With the community’s help, we’ll be around for at least 90 more.

VON Windsor-Essex is asking people to consider a one-time donation of $90 or an ongoing contribution of $9/month in recognition of the branch’s history. They are also asking the public to share their stories about how VON has touched their lives. Clients, family members, friends, volunteers, and staff are invited to help mark the occasion by recording the organization’s legacy for future generations.

For more details about upcoming events or supporting through donations, visit online.